The Papers of Principal Chief John Ross in the Gilcrease Collection

Event Details

Description

Part of the Helmerich Center Opening Weekend Celebration

Duane King, Ph.D., founding director of the Helmerich Center for American Research, will lecture about John Ross (1790-1866), who not only served as principal chief of the Cherokee Nation longer than anyone else (1828-1866), but also led the people during some of the most turbulent periods in U.S. history. During his tenure, the Cherokee Nation struggled against forced removal from its original homeland, internal violence with post-removal factionalism, the unification and rebuilding of the Cherokee Nation in Indian Territory and the American Civil War. All of these major events as well as the chief's family life are chronicled in the 11 lineal feet of the John Ross Papers in the Gilcrease Collection. Some of the most significant and thought-provoking discoveries will be examined in this presentation.

Registering for this event helps us to gauge how many people will be coming and plan accordingly so everyone can enjoy visiting Gilcrease. No tickets are needed. Seating will be on a first-come, first-served basis.